Care of Indoor Tomato Plants

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Care of Indoor Tomato Plants

Overview

Tomatoes are a staple plant in almost all gardens. However, you do not need a large yard to grow great-tasting tomatoes. You can grow a bumper crop of tomatoes inside your home. Indoor tomato plants do require some special care because you do not have the benefit of nature to help the growing process. But when you grow indoor tomatoes you do not have to worry about common pests and diseases that often accompany outdoor growing. You will need to be Mother Nature's helper, though, to assist the germination of your tomato plant.

Step 1

Transplant the tomato plant seedlings that you have started or purchased from a nursery into a larger container when they are 3 inches tall. Transplant the seedlings into a container that is as tall as the tomato plant will be at maturity. This will give the roots plenty of room to grow. Use regular potting soil to fill the container for your tomato plants.

Step 2

Water the tomato plants at least twice a week until the soil is moist but not saturated. Use a water can to pour water near the base of the tomato and avoid watering the leaves directly. The air indoors is dry but not normally humid. Keeping the soil moist will benefit your tomato plants.

Step 3

Fertilize the soil every six weeks by adding a 1-inch layer of compost and working the compost into the soil. Avoid disturbing the roots as you work the compost in. Water lightly after adding compost.

Step 4

Shake the pot slightly every once in a while to help germination. Tomato plants are self-germinating; however, outdoors they get the benefit of wind and breezes to shake the pollen loose. Tap on the main stem of the tomato as well as the larger branches with your finger every couple of days.

Step 5

Turn your tomato plants during the day so that the entire tomato plant will get some sunlight. Position your tomato plants in windows where they will get at least six hours of sunlight. This will also keep the temperature on your tomato plants near the desired 70 degree F for good yields.

Things You'll Need

Large container

Potting soil

Watering pot

Compost

References

About this Author

Kenneth Crawford is a freelance writer with more than 10 years' writing experience. His work has appeared in both print and online publications, including "The American Chronicle." Crawford holds an associate degree in business administration from Commonwealth College.